About
Dr. Aaron Joseph Hockley is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at a neurosurgery department within a major hospital in Edmonton, AB, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. He provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. Dr. Hockley adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe and effective treatment for his patients.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and has completed extensive post-graduate training in neurosurgery. Dr. Hockley holds the necessary certifications to practice as a Neurosurgeon in Alberta, including specialty certification in neurosurgical care (Surgical Care of the Brain, Spine, and Nerves). His training encompasses both operative and non-operative management of complex neurological conditions, equipping him with the expertise to deliver specialized surgical interventions.
Dr. Hockley's clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety, precision in surgical technique, and the utilization of advanced technology to optimize outcomes. He is committed to providing comprehensive care through multidisciplinary collaboration and thorough pre- and post-operative support. Fluent in English, he strives to create a reassuring environment for his patients in Edmonton, ensuring they are well-informed and actively involved in their care journey.
Dr. Aaron Hockley surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain, potentially treated with microvascular decompression.
- Movement Disorders (Parkinson's, Essential Tremor, Dystonia - for DBS evaluation): Evaluation for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery for patients with movement disorders not adequately controlled by medication.
- Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.
Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders
- Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.
- Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
- Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
Peripheral Nerve Disorders (Surgical Management)
- Peripheral Nerve Tumors (e.g., Schwannomas, Neurofibromas): Benign or malignant tumors arising from peripheral nerves that may require surgical excision.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome - surgical cases): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, potentially requiring surgical decompression or transposition.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (severe cases requiring surgery): Compression of the median nerve at the wrist, where surgery (carpal tunnel release) may be indicated if conservative treatments fail.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Aaron Hockley.
- Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- Spinal Fusion & Instrumentation (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar): Surgical stabilization of the spine using bone grafts and/or metallic hardware for conditions like instability, deformity, or after trauma/tumor resection.
- Interpretation of Advanced Neuroimaging (MRI, CT, Angiography, Myelography): Expert analysis of specialized imaging of the brain, spinal cord, and vasculature to guide diagnosis and surgical decision-making.
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clipping & Coiling (Endovascular coiling often with Interventional Neuroradiology): Surgical or endovascular treatment to secure brain aneurysms and prevent rupture or re-rupture.
- Surgery for Spinal Trauma & Fractures: Decompression and stabilization procedures for injuries to the spinal column and spinal cord.
- Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation for Chronic Pain: Placement of a device that delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord to manage chronic back or limb pain.
- Carotid Endarterectomy / Carotid Artery Stenting Coordination: Surgical removal of plaque from the carotid artery or stenting (often by vascular surgeons/interventionalists) to prevent stroke, with neurosurgical consultation for specific cases.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Hockley for care relevant to your specific condition.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Hockley's practice is located within a neurosurgery clinic or hospital department in Edmonton's S Central neighbourhood, close to the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park areas. The facility is conveniently situated near the Botanical Gardens (Pyramids), offering a scenic environment for patients and visitors. Accessible by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes, the location is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring ease of access for those coming for consultations or procedures.
- Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Hockley, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hockley, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some advanced technologies, specific implantable devices, or purely elective/cosmetic procedures may have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Hockley's office, the hospital's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) prior to any major procedure.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hockley, a Neurosurgeon?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician, an emergency room physician, or another specialist (like a neurologist or oncologist) is almost always required to see a Neurosurgeon such as Dr. Hockley. Neurosurgical conditions are typically complex and require initial assessment and investigation before a neurosurgical consultation is appropriate. The referral ensures coordinated care and that you are directed to the right specialist.
- What are some common procedures a Neurosurgeon performs?
- Neurosurgeons perform a wide variety of intricate procedures. Common surgeries include craniotomies (opening the skull) for brain tumor removal, aneurysm clipping, or hematoma evacuation; spinal surgeries like laminectomies or discectomies for nerve decompression, and spinal fusions for instability; and placement of shunts for hydrocephalus. Dr. Hockley would be able to discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition. Many neurosurgeons also have subspecialty interests, such as pediatric neurosurgery, spine surgery, or vascular neurosurgery.
- What are the general risks associated with neurosurgery?
- All surgical procedures carry some risks. For neurosurgery, these can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and neurological deficits (such as weakness, numbness, or problems with speech or vision), depending on the area being operated on. There's also the risk that the surgery may not fully alleviate the symptoms or that the underlying condition may recur. Dr. Hockley will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of your proposed surgery in detail, allowing you to make an informed decision.
- How is a brain tumor typically treated by a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hockley?
- The treatment for a brain tumor depends on its type, size, location, and the patient's overall health. For many tumors, surgical resection (removal) by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Hockley is a primary treatment, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible. Surgery may also be done to obtain a biopsy for diagnosis. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach that may also include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, coordinated with oncologists and radiation oncologists.
- What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Hockley treat surgically?
- Neurosurgeons like Dr. Hockley who specialize in spine surgery treat a variety of conditions affecting the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (low-back) spine. These can include herniated discs causing nerve compression, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra), spinal fractures due to trauma, spinal tumors, and spinal deformities. Surgical procedures aim to decompress nerves, stabilize the spine, or remove tumors.
8440 112 St NW, 2D1.02
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7
Phone: (780) 407-7179 | Fax: (780) 407-8203
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hockley is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Hockley for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=6a9fce9c-ab1e-43d2-9cf0-ecdf455fbc8e&i=627